“We didn’t have the best first period as a team, really,” Maltby said. “We came out and played a lot better. We had a good entry, and Abby got it to me in front and I just tried to get a quick release and Millsy was in front screening, so I think it went five-hole and caught Howie off guard.”

Entering his 17th season – 14th with the Red Wings – Maltby will be hard pressed to land a spot on the organization’s NHL roster. This month, he signed a two-way contract with the club, and likely will begin the season with the team’s AHL affiliate in Grand Rapids.

“He’s just in a situation,” Babcock said of Maltby. “He’s going out there and getting himself ready and battling, and he’s in a situation with his contract that he’s got to win a job, obviously.

“They want to play here, they have to perform. So for him – and I thought (Drew) Miller was real competitive today – it’s important that these guys have to play for their ice-time.”

Last season, Maltby was hampered by a lingering shoulder injury, which eventually required season-ending surgery in February. The shoulder hasn’t been a problem in training camp, Maltby said.

“Right now I don’t have any issues,” he said. “I tried to throw a couple little checks, and what-not. No issues, so I’m happy about that.”

Maltby was also happy about his goal that gave Team Lindsay a 1-0 lead.

“It’s always nice to score, whether it’s in training camp in these games, exhibitions, or the real thing,” he said. “You always want to play well, regardless of your situation. I’m not going to surprise them with anything. I think from a confidence side of it, it’s nice to not just contribute, but it gives you momentum.”